Lumix DMC-FZ30

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ30 Review

Introduction & Physical Views

The DMC-FZ30 continues Panasonic's "super zoom" series with an 8-megapixel, 12x
optical zoom (35-420mm equivalent) with MEGA Optical Image Stabilization and both
automatic and manual controls.

The 12x optical zoom Leica DC Vario-Elmarit Lens, which has appeared in all of the FZ
series cameras from Panasonic, has undergone further development to ensure more superb
picture rendering. Along with the CCD size and total effective pixels, the FZ30 also
has enhanced and added a host of other features: a manual zoom ring along with a
manual focus ring; an easy-to-see, free-moving LCD; and adjustable dials for the
aperture and shutter speed controls. Both the LCD and the electronic viewfinder have
had their resolution increased by about 180 percent, offering a sharp, clear view.

The FZ30 combines high-speed and high-quality image processing with the Venus Engine
II LSI. It boasts quick responsiveness with best-in-class level release time lag of
0.01 seconds. Adopting a non-collapsible lens has substantially reduced start up time
from about five seconds to about 0.97 seconds. Autofocus time in 1-point high-speed AF
has been reduced to a quarter of the level achieved in Panasonic's DMC-FZ20 (based on
the CIPA standard).

Two rings on the lens barrel of the FZ30 provide manual control of zoom and focus,
allowing quick and fine control that typically can't be achieved with button controls.
Shutter speed and aperture controls area also very easy and quick to adjust with
dials. Shutter speed can be set from 1/2000 to 60 seconds and the aperture from F2.8
to F11 to meet a wide range of shooting conditions. The AE lock button, a new control,
is convenient for taking multiple shots at the same exposure setting regardless of
subject color conditions.

In addition to advanced features are great enhancements to basic functionality. A
newly developed lithium-ion battery has increased capacity, allowing for up to 280
images with one charge. There are also 14 scene modes for beginning photographers,
including five news modes: Baby, Soft Skin, Food, Starry Sky and Candle. Each scene
has its own help screen to describe the affect and advise the photographer on how to
get the best shot possible.

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